Distinguished Contributions to Teaching Award

History

On June 15, 1979, Council approved the establishment of an annual award for “outstanding contributions to the undergraduate and/or graduate teaching and learning of sociology.”

Selection Criteria and Eligibility

The ASA Distinguished Contributions to Teaching Award honors ASA members' outstanding contributions to the teaching of undergraduate and/or graduate sociology. The award recognizes contributions that have made a significant impact on the manner in which sociology is taught at a regional, state, national, or international level. These contributions may include preparation of teaching- and curriculum-related materials and publications, participation in the scholarship of teaching and learning, development and communication of innovative teaching techniques, leadership in teaching-related workshops and symposia, involvement in innovative program development, and contributions to the enhancement of teaching within state, regional, or national associations.

The award typically is given for a series of contributions spanning several years or an entire career, although it may recognize a single project of exceptional impact. The award is not designed to recognize outstanding teaching ability at one's own institution unless that is part of a career with broader impact. Individuals, departments, schools, or other collective actors are eligible.

Criteria for evaluation will include undergraduate and/or graduate teaching contributions that go beyond the local department; teaching honors and recognition; a significant contribution to the teaching and learning of sociology such as preparing teaching materials, innovative teaching techniques and curricula disseminated to a broad audience; publications and participation in the scholarship of teaching and learning; leadership in workshops, symposia, or regional/national teaching efforts; innovative program development; and/or contributions to teaching enhancement at the state, regional, national and/or international level.

Nomination Procedures

Nominations should include the name of the nominee and a one to two-page statement explaining the basis of the nomination (maximum 2000 words), a vita, and a maximum of 5 letters of support.

In addition to the nomination materials described above, complete and submit the required nomination form available for download as a Word file here. Then send the complete nomination packets via email to nominations@asanet.org with the name of the award and nominee in the subject line. The deadline for nominations for the 2020 award is January 31, 2019.

Selection Committee Members

The selection committee is composed of nine members, each serving a staggered three-year term. Members are appointed from among the Association membership by the Council based on the recommendation of the Committee on Committees.